Da Lat

Dalat (pop. 120,000 as of 1999, spelled Đà Lạt in Vietnamese) is a small city, 1500 m (4,920 ft) above sea level, located in the Central Highland of Vietnam. It is the namesake of a local ethnic group, and its name literally means "Stream of the Lat". It is famous for a cool climate, beautiful sights such as waterfalls, lakes and especially the Lang Biang mountain.

Early history

During the 1890’s, French explorers in the area (including the noted bacteriologist Alexandre Yersin), which was then part of the French territory of Cochinchina, asked the territorial governor to create a resort center in the Dankia highlands. The governor agreed, and, in 1907, the first hotel was built.

The French endowed the city with villas and boulevards, and its Swiss charms remain today. They also built boarding schools where children from the whole of Indochina were taught by French priests, nuns and expatriates. There were seminaries of Jesuit and other orders. Two military academies were also established.

During World War II, Dalat became the Capital of Federation of Indochina (1939 - 1945).

Environmental features

Dalat is home to Ho Xuan Huong Lake, a manmade, 5 km² lake. The average temperature is 17°C, and does not exceed 19°C in the hottest season. Early mornings, the city arises to mystic fog over the lake. Its temperate climate is ideal for agricultural production. Dalat is renowned for its orchids, roses, vegetables and fruits. There is a nascent wine making industry.

References

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